Back Pain Myths: Does It Always Mean Something Serious?

Does Back Pain Always Mean Something Serious?
Most back pain isn’t caused by serious conditions. Learn how to tell the difference and take steps toward relief.

Back Pain Always Means a Serious Problem... Or Does It?
When back pain strikes, it’s easy to assume the worst. Could it be a “slipped” disc? A fracture? Something even scarier? This fear often leads people to avoid movement, delay care, or feel stuck in uncertainty.

At Northcote Chiropractic Centre and Essendon Health & Sports, we see patients daily who have been living with unnecessary worry about their back pain. Here’s the truth: the vast majority of back pain is mechanical, meaning it’s related to how your muscles, joints, and spine are moving—not a sign of something life-threatening.

When to Worry vs. When to Relax

Most cases of back pain improve with proper care and don’t point to severe conditions. However, it’s important to recognize symptoms that might need urgent attention, like persistent numbness, loss of bladder control, or pain following a traumatic injury. For everyday backaches, there’s no need to panic—but it’s a good idea to act.

How to Get Back to Feeling Good:

1️⃣ Understand the Cause
Most back pain stems from factors like poor posture, weak muscles, or overuse. These issues are treatable with movement and expert care. Recognize that most back pain is not caused by a heavy object being lifted incorrectly. Muscle deconditioning, stress, tension, fatigue, inactivity, new activity, driving, repetitive motions, sofas and sleeping can all be a cause.

2️⃣ Don’t Ignore the Pain
Pain is your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention. It is the only way our body can signal to us that what we are doing to ourselves is damaging us. It is trying to keep us safe. Consulting a chiropractor can help pinpoint the issue and create a plan to feel better.

3️⃣ Take Proactive Steps
Once past the first few days of injury the best treatment for pain is movement. This is where therapy prescribes what is the best approach for your pain problem. Movement, gentle stretching, and core-strengthening exercises can often reduce pain and prevent it from recurring. This may be prescribed along with specific joint therapy such as mobilization and manipulation.

If you want to explore reliable information, check out this overview of mechanical back pain or this resource on common causes of back pain.

Our Goal Is Your Peace of Mind
Imagine knowing your back pain isn’t as scary as you thought and feeling empowered to take action. At Northcote Chiropractic Centre and Essendon Health & Sports, we’re here to guide you toward a pain-free future. Book a consultation today, and let’s work together to get you moving with confidence.